By Steven D. Gatt, Automotive Editor
Not many cars in the world look better than the Mitsubishi 3000GT. The Mitsubishi 3000GT evaluated here was, unfortunately, not the twin-turbo, all-wheel drive version. From the deep side scoops and large front air dam to the wide tires this is the look of speed. This basic version of the 3000GT, tested here, was very well equipped, everything was standard; even that huge rear wing.
Without the twin-turbo power, the Mitsubishi 3000GT is only marginal as a performance car. The handling was excellent but it cornered flat. The shifter had short throws for quick shifting between gears. Clunky, sticky and notchy is the best way to describe how the shifter actually worked. Anti-lock brakes were not part of the standard equipment on this car, so finding the lock-up point and avoiding it was difficult. Torque steer was also very noticeable.
During my week long test drive, I achieved 22 mpg. Official mileage
ratings for the 3000GT are 19 mpg city and 25 mpg highway; reasonable
figures for a performance car.
The interior is well appointed and features a leather like finish on the plastic dash. The dashboard features a comprehensive gauge package; the controls on the dash are also easy to reach with the exception of the radio. The front seats are grippy and supportive. Unfortunately, it is difficult to get into and out of the seats with the low height of the car and the wide door sill that one has to avoid.. Steering is easy with the large leather wrapped steering wheel and you can adjust it with the tilt steering controls. While the 3000GT has a back seat, no one could possibly sit there. Storage space is also very limited in the rear hatch, only a thin suit case could fit there. Lift-over is also unusually high.
Price as tested, including a destination charge of $470, was $27,520. The Mitsubishi 3000GT is in a unique market: the people interested in this car aren't interested in the more powerful and nearly identical price Camaro SS or Mustang Cobra. They are interested in the style and driving an import is a status symbol. The 3000GT is a good car but I'd rather buy and drive the more expensive twin turbo all wheel drive version, if I could afford it.